SPEED camera bosses have hit out at vandals who have attacked cameras 10 times in the last year.

They said repairs will be carried out to ensure the seven cameras are up and running again as soon as possible.

And they warned offenders they face huge fines and lengthy prison terms if caught.

Although the Dorset Safety Camera Partnership has said recently that it plans to remove some static cameras in the future, a spokesman said there are currently no plans to implement the changes.

Among those recently torched are cameras in Ferndown, Bear Cross, Longham, Verwood and Three Legged Cross, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

“Arson is a criminal offence and Dorset Police is investigating the incidents,” said a spokesman. “Depending on the severity of the incident, those caught committing this offence could have their cases heard at either magistrates’ court or the crown court.”

The maximum sentence for arson in the magistrates’ court is six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000. In the crown court, life imprisonment is an option.

Five of the cameras were vandalised in a period of just seven weeks, underlining the strength of feeling among motorists.